1959 Berkeley QB vs. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 1,583 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 49 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 489 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB.
Because 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Berkeley QB, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Berkeley QB. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Berkeley QB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Berkeley QB | 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Berkeley | Volkswagen |
| Model | QB | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 692 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 381 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2430 mm |
